Article: The do’s and dont’s of first dates

At the beginning of any new romance it is always as simple as hit or miss. Yes chemistry and attraction are important (do not listen to anyone who says otherwise) but the first few dates are the true deal breakers. A bad date at the forefront can end all desire for another chance. There are a few pointers that can help you overcome the odds and hopefully set the stage for that beautiful future you have been day dreaming about.

Despite contrary beliefs, most guys and gals want the same thing- a partner. This is a state of relationship that takes work and time and (dare I say it) commitment.  So we need to pass the initial dating phase without a hitch to set the foundation for that partnerhood.  What can we do to help those first few dates go smoothly? Let’s start with dining options…

The dinner date: To eat or not to eat. Eatting, as odd as this sounds, is one of the most bonding experiences. To be able to be face to face with your date doing something that is rarely attractive and with very little ability to communicate without being gross, all the while keeping each others interest, is a task that is hard to swallow at first.  A few tips- NEVER talk with food in your mouth, sounds obvious enough but when you are trying to hold a conversation and enjoy a meal at the same time it can happen. Pick a place that both of you would enjoy but keep in mind the food options. For example, dont take her to a sports bar if she isnt into sports no matter how good the wings and beer are. And messy foods like pasta, soup, and ribs, should be reserved for when you have become comfortable being dirty in front of each other.

According to our research: Want to impress your guy- go with a steak restaurant and order a steak. Want to impress your girl- go to a sushi bar.

The next big thing is entertainment. Ultimately you should be the entertaining factor but you still need somewhere to do the entertaining. This initial stage of a relationship is all about getting to know one another to determine if a next stage if something you both would want to try. So pick something that both of you would enjoy but somewhere you can interact. I know dinner and a movie tends to be a top pick but I would advise against it. To me its a cheating date- you cant fully communicate at dinner (Remember no talking with food in your mouth) and then again nothing at the movies, so wheres the actual dating part? You know, when you learn if you like each other and all? I think something interactive is important, even maybe competitive, like miniature golf or bowling, or simple like an art show or museum, or adventurous like a hike together.. All interactive dates that can showcase a talent or knowledge or even just a goofy side. All have the ability to let your personality shine and to strike up some possibly meaningful conversations. Leave the cheating dates till later..

Now that we have the ‘what to do’ questions answered, here are a few tips:

Although this is obvious in my book, I hear complaints on this topic a lot- Have great hygiene!  Take a shower and brush your teeth before your dates. Do not expect your morning routine to have kept you fresh all day for your dinner date. Put on a clean outfit and dress to impress.. but wear something appropriate for the date.  Do not wear a mini skirt or a suit on a hike, just because you may look your best in front of your mirror does not mean you will not look ridiculous on your date.

Come prepared to pay. Do not show up empty handed because you assume your date has you covered. Unless it was already discussed, at least offer to cover your portion. With the economy the way it is, it is better safe than sorry. It is nice at the beginning to share the financial responsibilities of the dates. I am not a fan of going dutch as it symbolizes more of a friendship than a budding romance, so how about take turns. It alleviates the burden and allows both to contribute while maintaining that dating atmosphere.

Last, but definitely not least.. Have fun! If you are bored chances are your date is too! Court each other, it may be an old tradition but its worthy of a come back. Enjoy this fun and exciting portion of all new relationships. Hopefully it will be the beginning of your great love story.

Tags: Dates, Dating, Dinner, Entertainment, Romance, Tips